Preparing Files

When placing your next print order with XcelPrinting, begin your design process with one of our application-specific design templates for all XcelPrinting products. These templates are files that include predefined guidelines indicating bleed, trim, and safety specifications. Using our templates helps eliminate pre-press problems and keeps your print job on schedule. For basic information regarding file preparation please view below. For more in depth assistance with file preparation, please visit the Preparing Artwork Files section in our HelpCenter

File Size
All files need to be built to the final trim size plus bleed. So your file should be 1/8” larger than the product size that you are purchasing. (i.e.: 2x3.5 business card = 2.125x3.625 graphic file). When generating the file into the proper format, don’t use any crop or printer’s marks for this will increase the dimensions of the design file.

Fonts/Text
If working out of vector based software such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, or Freehand, all text must be converted to outlines before generating the final PDF file. If working out of Adobe PhotoShop, simply flatten the image. Please also make sure that you are not using a font size smaller than 7pt.

Resolution
We recommend that all images used are at least 300dpi for printing purposes. Submitting files with a higher resolution than 300dpi is not necessary.

Color
We require that all submitted files be saved in CMYK to ensure color accuracy as all RGB submitted files are converted to CMYK.

Compression
We suggest compressing your file(s) using WinZip for the PC and if you are using a Mac, we suggest using the native Apple Archive-.zip process, as this will decrease the chances of corruption. Using StuffIt for the Mac is also acceptable. Please note, however, that compressed files can only be uploaded through our 24 Hour Proof option.

Safety Zone
Don’t place any critical images or text beyond the safety zone, which is at least 1/8” from the final trim size, to avoid it getting cut off when the finished piece is trimmed.

Accepted File Types
.PSD - Adobe Photoshop
.EPS - Adobe Illustrator
.PDF - Adobe Acrobat
 

Free PDF Writer
If you need a program that creates PDF's, XcelPrinting recommends CutePDF. It's a free and powerful tool that creates PDF's quickly and easily.  To view Documentation about this program please visit the manufacturer's website.